Evolution of a legend
The C series is an important constant in Colnago's long company history. Back in 1989, Colnago developed its first carbon frame, the C35, together with car manufacturer Ferrari, but it was never used in races. Five years later, the legendary C40 was the first carbon frame to win a professional race - the newly presented machine immediately won the tough cobblestone classic Paris-Roubaix. As a professional racer, the C series, which was always based on tubes glued into sockets, has long since been replaced by modern monocoque constructions such as the current V5Rs or the Y1Rs, which superstar Tadej Pogacar steers through the peloton. The production of these bikes now also takes place in Asia. However, the constantly updated C-series remained part of the programme for solvent traditionalists. With the C72, Colnago is now consistently developing the C-series further, so that the C72 stands out even more from the competition models. Unlike modern racing bikes, the focus here is not on maximum aerodynamics or minimum weight, but on design, elaborate processing steps and the "Handmade in Italy" concept.
New customisation for the target group
A slightly more comfortable seating position and details such as the integrated storage compartment show that, for the first time, the C72 has been consistently tailored to the actual audience for these bikes - affluent enthusiasts who appreciate exclusivity and craftsmanship. This also sets the new model apart from its predecessors. The earlier C models - from the legendary C40 to the C50, C60 until C68 - all still had genuine sporting ambitions and were in the tradition of the Colnago carbon frames with which the brand once pioneered the then exotic material.
The C72 thus deliberately positions itself as a handmade collector's item away from competitive sport. For fans, the exclusive design and especially the production in Europe at the Colnago company headquarters can be important selling points for this overpriced luxury item.
Made entirely in Italy
Production of the C72 takes place entirely in Italy. From gluing and assembling the tubes in Cambiago to finishing work, painting and final quality control, each frame undergoes a complex manufacturing process. Annual production is limited to 3,000 frames - a conscious decision which, according to the manufacturer, is due to the time and precision required for manual production.
When developing the C72, Colnago used the characteristic sleeves of the multi-part frame construction as a deliberate design element. Instead of concealing the modular construction, the transitions between the frame parts are emphasised as a design feature. Particular attention was paid to the joints, whose alignment, spacing and transitions were precisely controlled - an approach that Colnago compares to the gap fetish from automotive design.
Technical alignment
The C72 is positioned as a versatile racing bike with racing DNA. The geometry is designed to enable both performance-orientated and more comfortable riding positions for longer distances. At the same time, the tyre clearance has been increased to a maximum of 35 millimetres to allow wider tyres and make the bike more versatile. The rear triangle and seat post are said to have been tuned for greater comfort. The geometry is designed for stability at high speeds.
Integrated components
The C72 system includes specially developed components: A new Colnago CC.02 handlebar/stem unit is designed to improve handling and reduce weight. An integrated seat post improves aerodynamics and adjustability. A special feature is the specially designed bottle cage with integrated storage compartment in the down tube - a solution which, according to the manufacturer, does not compromise frame rigidity.
Only top groups, confident prices
The C72 is available in four paint finishes, all of which emphasise the connection between the seat stays and top tube as a visual element. Only the top electronic groupsets Shimano Dura-Ace Di2, SRAM Red AXS and Campagnolo Super Record WRL are offered as equipment. They can be completed with carbon wheels from Fulcrum or Enve, with prices ranging from 14,200 to 16,600 euros. The frameset with handlebars and seat post costs 6780 euros.
Limited edition "La Scala"
To coincide with the market launch, Colnago is also presenting the special edition C72 La Scala, which is dedicated to Milan's Teatro alla Scala. The limited edition of 72 numbered models is characterised by a special paint finish in matt red, gold and marbled white, inspired by the aesthetics of the famous opera house.
The characteristic feature is the embossed cloverleaf emblem with gold leaf applications. The C72 La Scala is available online and from selected dealers for 22,000 euros.
Jens Klötzer
Editor
